SHOP workers in two Greenock stores rallied together to help Inverclyde Foodbank.

Thoughtful Carla Copeland, who works at the New Best Cellar in East Crawford Street, says she was inspired by the community spirit she grew up with and wanted to help people less fortunate.

Carla, pictured right, organised a collection for the foodbank and told the Tele she was wowed by the support her appeal received from regulars.

The kind mum also organised a raffle in aid of Ardgowan Hospice and collected gifts for her daughter’s friend, who recently suffered a family bereavement.

Carla said: “I grew up in Gibshill and if someone was ever in bother we all came together as a community.

“We were brought up to help others and that was very much behind what I wanted to do.

“I’ve been blown away by the kindness shown by our customers. It’s good to give something back.”

Carla says the cause was one close to her heart, adding: “Personally I know people who have used the foodbank, so it was something I wanted to help with.

“Everyone has something in their cupboards they are not going to use, but it can be like a lottery win for other people.”

Fellow shop assistant Stacey Loy, who works in sister store ‘U Save’ in Bridgend Road, has also organised a collection for the foodbank and a raffle in aid of Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity.
Stacey said: “It’s good to be able to help.

“The customers have been so supportive, which is great.

“New Year is tough for a lot of people and hopefully this will help a few families through a difficult month.”